Dr. Canaan Shores cradles his two beloved pets, Gabbie and Gus, who are both senior mixes of Shih Tzu and Yorkie breeds, showcasing the deep bond he shares with them.
Courtesy of Dr. Canaan Shores
With the unmistakable sounds of school bells ringing, leaves crunching underfoot, and jubilant touchdown celebrations echoing, it’s clear that summer has gracefully bowed out, making way for the festive charm of fall.
As the head veterinarian of the Urgent and Convenient Care service at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Dr. Canaan Shores provides invaluable advice for ensuring that the upcoming holiday festivities are not only enjoyable but also safe for our cherished pets, treating them as integral members of the family.
Dr. Shores emphasizes that pet owners face a myriad of safety concerns that vary, depending on whether they’re embarking on a journey with their pet, opting for boarding, enlisting a sitter, or enjoying a cozy holiday gathering at home.
Traveling with your pet
When preparing to embark on a trip with your furry friend, Dr. Shores suggests taking specific precautions to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
It’s essential to carefully assess that your pet’s medications are fully stocked, catering to the duration of your trip—this precaution helps avoid any last-minute scrambles for refills as you set off.
Proactively research urgent or emergency veterinary care facilities along your travel route and at your destination, ensuring you’re equipped with this crucial information before any potential emergencies arise.
Engage with your veterinarian about medications that may ease your pet’s travel experience, whether through stress relief or by providing a bland prescription diet to prevent gastrointestinal upset while on the road.
Dr. Shores firmly states, “Sedatives are our friend!” underscoring the objective of minimizing any travel-related stress on your beloved pet.
When your pet stays behind
Before leaving home, it’s crucial to ensure that your pet has an ample supply of all necessary medications, just as you would for yourself.
Dr. Shores adds that for those times when boarding your pet, there are vital considerations that you should keep in mind.
“Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccination and deworming, necessitating advance planning as fulfilling these criteria can take anywhere from two to four weeks,” he advises. “Thoroughly review your pet’s medical records to confirm that all requirements are satisfied well ahead of your departure.”
Even in situations where boarding facilities might not mandate these precautions, ensuring your pet receives the highest level of preventive care can greatly enhance their well-being.
“Consult your primary veterinarian about additional measures that can be implemented to further reduce your pet’s risks,” he suggests.
Holidays at home with your pet
Before introducing your beloved pet to the chaotic atmosphere of the holiday season, it’s important to carefully consider various potential hazards that could arise during this busy time.
Dr. Shores warns, “With enticing treats plentiful around the house, many ‘high-value’ foods, like turkey carcasses and steak drippings, will likely be discarded carelessly, which could prove to be dangerous for your pet.” He advises ensuring that your trash can is securely closed to prevent any rummaging. “Never presume that just because your pet has been well-behaved in the past, they won’t be tempted now. Pets can evolve in their behaviors with age, sometimes becoming more obedient, while at other times, they may exhibit unexpected curiosity.”
He strongly encourages pet owners to keep the contact number for an animal poison hotline readily available in their home.
“I highly recommend the ASPCA hotline (888-426-4435). Although they charge a small fee, the peace of mind it provides is priceless,” he explains. “If you suspect that your pet may have ingested something hazardous, you can call this number for guidance on whether a vet visit is necessary.”
Cats, in particular, have a tendency to chew on hazardous items like tinsel and electrical cords, which can lead to severe issues, such as gastrointestinal obstructions.
“Moreover, cats love to explore and climb, frequently finding their way atop decorative trees,” Dr. Shores warns. “The risk is compounded if those ornaments or trees fall, potentially causing injury.”
He advises pet owners to consider putting up decorations only when they plan to be home for several days. This allows vigilant observation of how your pet interacts with new objects. “If you sense that your pet might struggle with certain decorations, consider scaling back,” he recommends.
Hosting a gathering
Just as we humans experience a spectrum of emotions, our pets may also react differently to the presence of guests in their home, influenced significantly by their individual personalities—pet owners should take these feelings into account before the party commences.
“While some pets may thrive in social settings, eagerly licking guests’ hands at the door, others may find gatherings to be distressing, leading to fear and anxiety,” Dr. Shores notes. “These pressures can trigger gastrointestinal issues in pets and could even lead to biting incidents.”
To mitigate any potential issues, Dr. Shores recommends the following strategies:
• Create a quiet, dimly-lit space where your pet can retreat if they feel overwhelmed, helping to stave off overstimulation and anxiety.
• Consider using sedatives to assist with their relaxation.
• Communicate your pet’s personality to your guests to minimize unwanted interactions that could aggravate your pet.
Final thoughts
Whether traveling or enjoying quiet time at home, be aware that the holiday season is an exceptionally high-volume period for both urgent care and emergency veterinary services.
During this time, primary care veterinary offices may close, causing an influx in urgent cases as pets are more likely to consume high-fat foods or tussle with unfamiliar dogs. This scenario leads to extended wait times at any available clinics.
Dr. Shores also urges caution for those contemplating gifting a pet to a loved one during the holiday period: “Please refrain from spontaneity. If the recipient has thoroughly considered the responsibility of pet ownership, then a new companion may be a thoughtful gift. However, bringing a pet into someone’s life without prior discussion or planning can have dire consequences.”
He highlights the troubling increase in the number of pets surrendered to shelters immediately following the holiday season.
By keeping these essential tips in mind, you and your furry friend can gear up for a joyful holiday season together. Should you have any more specific queries about navigating the holiday period with your pet, consulting directly with your primary veterinarian is always advisable.
**Interview with Dr. Canaan Shores: Keeping Pets Safe During the Holiday Season**
*Interviewer*: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Shores! With the holiday season upon us, what are some common safety concerns pet owners should be aware of?
*Dr. Shores*: Thank you for having me! It’s crucial for pet owners to recognize that holidays can bring about numerous potential hazards for our furry companions—whether it’s traveling with them, leaving them behind, or hosting gatherings at home. Each situation has its unique concerns.
*Interviewer*: Let’s start with traveling. What advice do you have for pet owners who plan to take their pets along for holiday trips?
*Dr. Shores*: When traveling with pets, preparation is key. First, ensure that you have enough medications for the duration of your trip. It’s also wise to research veterinary services along your route and at your destination in case of emergencies. And don’t forget to discuss stress-relief medications with your veterinarian. Sedatives can be very helpful in reducing anxiety during travel.
*Interviewer*: What about when pets are left behind? What should owners keep in mind?
*Dr. Shores*: Before leaving, confirm that your pet has enough medications and that you’ve arranged proper care, whether through boarding or a sitter. If you choose boarding, be sure to check vaccination requirements well in advance—it can take weeks to get everything in order. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your pet’s well-being.
*Interviewer*: For those who are staying home with their pets, what holiday hazards should they look out for?
*Dr. Shores*: There are numerous risks during the holidays, especially with food temptations around. Ensure your trash is secured, as pets can be very curious and may ingest dangerous items. I also recommend keeping the ASPCA poison hotline number handy—it’s a lifeline for any concerns about potential ingestion of harmful substances.
*Interviewer*: How about those festive decorations? Are there any specific hazards associated with them?
*Dr. Shores*: Absolutely! Cats, in particular, are notorious for chewing on things like tinsel or electrical cords, which can be dangerous. When putting up decorations, do so only when you’re going to be home for a while so you can monitor your pet’s interaction with them. If you see your pet struggling with certain decorations, don’t hesitate to scale back.
*Interviewer*: what tips do you have for pet owners hosting holiday gatherings?
*Dr. Shores*: It’s all about reading your pet’s behavior. Some pets love socializing, while others may find gatherings overwhelming. Set up a quiet space where your pet can retreat if they feel stressed. This way, they have the option to escape the chaotic environment and relax.
*Interviewer*: Thank you, Dr. Shores! Your insights will definitely help pet owners make informed decisions this holiday season.
*Dr. Shores*: It’s my pleasure! Remember, our pets are part of the family, and taking the time to ensure their safety and comfort during the festivities is paramount. Happy holidays!
